As Hub bloggers Alegria Barclay and Anna Tschetter have respectfully already thoughtfully reviewedBelle Epoque and interviewed author Elizabeth Ross, I will only provide a brief outline of the novel here. Set in 1888, it is narrated by protagonist Maude Pichon, a sixteen-year-old who has run away from her home in Brittany to start a new, self-determined life in Paris. Desperate to make ends meet, she takes a position as a repoussoir at an agency, serving as a hired â€œbeauty foilâ€ for the wealthy. Supposedly plain-looking women such as Maude are paid by this agency to accompany wealthy women on social outings, with the idea that the women’s plainness will make the wealthy clients appear attractive in contrast. Maude often finds her work degrading, and yet, eventually becomes a bit enchanted by the world of her main client. In doing so she risks ruining meaningful new friendships and a possible love relationship. In our appearance-obsessed 21st century culture, it is impossible not to identity with Maude’s experiemce on some level.

Unfold one pastry sheet on lightly floured surface. Roll out to make a 10-inch square. Cut this into 4 equal squares.

Place 2 tbsp. of the chocolate morsels in the center of each square.

Brush the edges of each square lightly with beaten egg and fold to form a triangle. Press the edges down to seal.

Place these pastry triangles on the baking sheet about two inches apart.

Repeat steps 2 through 5 with the other pastry sheet.

Brush top of each pastry triangle with beaten egg.

Bake for 15-17 minutes or until puffed and golden.

Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes, remove to wire racks to cool completely and then enjoy!

I truly hope that you enjoy this French afternoon tea and of course the wonderful Belle Epoque. Please leave a comment telling us about any drinks and or treats that you’ve made or plan to make in the spirit of your favorite reads!